Camaron Frito

Camaron Frito Recipe | Belizean Fried Shrimp Recipe

Region / culture: Belize | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Camaron Frito, or fried shrimp, is a delicious and popular dish enjoyed by many around the world. This recipe features succulent shrimp coated in a crispy batter and fried to perfection.

History

Fried shrimp has been a beloved dish for centuries, with variations of the recipe found in many different cultures. The crispy coating and tender shrimp make it a favorite among seafood lovers.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp (450 g)
0.5 cup milk (125 ml)
0.25 tsp crumbled oregano (1 ml)
0.25 cup coarsely chopped almonds (60 g)
1 egg
0.75 cup flour
0.25 tsp garlic salt
1 ml vegetable oil or margarine

How to prepare

Boil the shrimp and remove the outer shell (15 – 20 minutes).
Slice each shrimp along the vein, deep enough to lay it out flat (butterfly fashion).
Beat together the egg, milk, flour, and seasoning until smooth.
Dip each shrimp in the batter.
Drain and spread the shrimp in a single layer on a tray.
Sprinkle almond if used.
Chill before frying for 1 – 2 hours (optional).
Heat the fat to 370°F (188°C).
Fry the shrimps until they turn brown.
Deep or shallow fry them.
Drain them on absorbent paper.
Serve them hot.

Variations

Add spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick of heat.
Use different nuts like pecans or walnuts for a unique flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to properly butterfly the shrimp to ensure even cooking.

- Chilling the shrimp before frying can help the batter adhere better.

- Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for perfect frying results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Camaron Frito with a side of rice, salad, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Deep fry the shrimp for a crispy texture.

- Shallow fry for a lighter coating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute almond milk for dairy milk.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the batter and butterfly the shrimp ahead of time for easy frying when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Camaron Frito on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 320

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 23g

Fats

Total Fat: 12g

Proteins

Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and Selenium.

Alergens

Contains shellfish, dairy, nuts, and gluten.

Summary

Camaron Frito is a protein-rich dish with a moderate amount of carbohydrates and fats. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Camaron Frito is a delicious and crispy fried shrimp dish that is sure to impress. With a flavorful batter and tender shrimp, it's a perfect meal for seafood lovers.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a simple yet delicious dish called Camaron Frito, or fried shrimp in English. I had always loved seafood, and the idea of crispy, breaded shrimp sounded absolutely mouthwatering to me.

I first came across the recipe for Camaron Frito when I was visiting my dear friend Maria in Mexico. Maria was an amazing cook, and she always seemed to have a new and exciting recipe up her sleeve. One evening, as we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on glasses of homemade sangria, she pulled out a tattered old recipe book and excitedly showed me the recipe for Camaron Frito.

As Maria explained the recipe to me, I could practically taste the shrimp in my mouth. The shrimp were first marinated in a mixture of garlic, lime juice, and spices, then coated in a light and crispy breading before being fried to golden perfection. It sounded absolutely divine.

Maria graciously offered to teach me how to make Camaron Frito, and I eagerly accepted. We spent the next afternoon in her kitchen, chopping, marinating, and frying up a big batch of shrimp. The smell that filled the kitchen as the shrimp sizzled in the hot oil was absolutely intoxicating.

When the shrimp were finally ready, Maria and I sat down to enjoy our creation. The shrimp were perfectly cooked, with a crispy outer coating that gave way to juicy, tender meat inside. The flavors of garlic, lime, and spices danced on my tongue, making me want to savor every bite.

That evening, as I sat on Maria's patio watching the sun set over the mountains, I knew that Camaron Frito would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I thanked Maria for teaching me the recipe, and promised to share it with my family back home.

When I returned home, I couldn't wait to make Camaron Frito for my husband and children. They were just as enamored with the dish as I was, and it quickly became a favorite in our household. Over the years, I've made Camaron Frito for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties, always receiving rave reviews from everyone who tries it.

The recipe for Camaron Frito has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, and it always brings back fond memories of my time in Mexico with Maria. I love that I can share this delicious dish with my loved ones, and I hope that one day, my children will pass it down to their own families.

As I sit in my kitchen now, preparing a batch of Camaron Frito for dinner tonight, I can't help but smile at the memories that this recipe holds for me. It's amazing how a simple dish can bring so much joy and connection to those who share it. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe from Maria, and I will always treasure the time we spent together creating this delicious meal.